Press Release

Ukraine: cooperation with the EU must be ambitious

Brussels

, 12.07.2017 - 12:17

"The EU and Ukraine must deepen cooperation and build a successful relationship. With an Association Agreement that is fully effective from September, a free trade area yielding results and with visa-free travel beginning, the EU and Ukraine have reached a closer relationship than ever before. The opportunities arising from this cooperation must be met with ambition,” said Michael Gahler MEP, Standing Rapporteur on Ukraine, ahead of the 19th EU-Ukraine Summit, which starts on Wednesday evening in Kiev.

He welcomed the conclusion of the ratification process of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement and called for ambitious cooperation.

“It is necessary for Kiev to seriously and comprehensively fight corruption - notably in ensuring the effectiveness of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau - and follow a path of reform and modernisation. The EU, in response, must continue its vital support for Ukraine and encourage Ukrainian citizens in their European aspirations,” insisted Michael Gahler.

“Russia is denying Crimea, Sevastopol and parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions their freedom, and the Ukrainian citizens under its influence and dominance, a life of safety and freedom from oppression. The EU and Ukraine, as allies, demonstrate how the European method of cooperation deepens trust and solidarity among nations and brings opportunities to their citizens and business communities,” he concluded.